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Welcome to Tourism Western Australia's corporate website – the industry's hub for the latest tourism news, resources and research.

As the State Tourism Organisation, our goal is to grow tourism by marketing WA as an incredible holiday and business events destination; attracting and promoting world-class sporting, cultural and arts events; and improving access, accommodation and tourism experiences. Find out more

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Last Reviewed: 2024-04-10

Acknowledgement of Country Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

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10 iconic wonders to see in Western Australia

Carla Grossetti

Sub-Editor & Journalist

16 February 2023

Flip through WA’s look book and you’ll find everything from beautiful beaches to soaring sand dunes and some of the most dramatic rock formations in Australia. Here are 10 iconic wonders you need to see.

1. wave rock.

Wave Rock is a granite inselberg that has been weathered by wind and water over an estimated 2.7 billion years. Located near the Wheatbelt town of Hyden, the landform looks like a sepia-toned still from The Big Wave Project II produced by ocean cinematographer Tim Bonython. Follow the Pathways to Wave Rock self-drive trail to see the forces of erosion that have sculpted the 15-metre high granite formation, which lies 340 kilometres southeast of Perth.

Visitors snap selfies in the barrel of the giant wave that has brush strokes of ochre, yellow, brown and grey feathered into the sandstone, adding to the illusion of it moving like water. While there, check out other interesting formations within Wave Rock Reserve such as King Rocks, the Hippo’s Yawn and Mulka’s Cave, where you’ll find examples of ancient rock art.

Wave Rock is a granite inselberg that has been weathered by wind and water over an estimated 2.7 billion years. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

2. Ningaloo Reef

The seas around Ningaloo Reef are so blue and so clear you will feel like you’re floating through space when you’re swimming here. Of course, most visitors come here to catapult into the waters to swim with whale sharks between March and July each year. But the world’s largest fringing reef system is also a destination in its own right and one lesser-known fact is that you can also swim with humpback whales between August and October each year.

Stretching in an azure-fringed ribbon some 300 kilometres from Carnarvon’s Red Bluff to the Muiron Islands, Ningaloo Reef was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Area site in 2011, a listing that loops in Ningaloo Marine Park as well as Cape Range National Park. Meaning ‘promontory’ or ‘deep water’ in the language of the Baiyungu, the name Ningaloo takes on new meaning when snorkelling through the coral gardens in an aquarium of colourful fish as the continental shelf comes closer to dry land than at any other point on the mainland. Don’t worry about buying postcards, you’re pretty much in one.

The world’s largest fringing reef system is also a destination in its own right. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

3. Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay

The Horizontal Falls are formed by fast-moving tidal currents that thunder, tumble and rage through two narrow gorges of the McLarty Range in Talbot Bay, in the Buccaneer Archipelago. There are no roads to this section of the coastline so most visitors see this wonder from the air via seaplane, or for a best-of-both-world’s experience, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures allows you to see them from both the air and the water. When luck is on your side there are whale-spotting opportunities in winter, which just adds to the thrill of soaring over this section of the Kimberley coastline.

Described by Sir David Attenborough as ‘one of the greatest natural wonders of the world’, the phenomenon occurs as torrents of water are sucked through a narrow gap between the gorges, creating a variation in sea level of up to about four metres. During an extreme high tide, about one million litres of water funnels through the two towering cliffs every second, creating currents that appear to pull the large volume of water sideways.

For a best-of-both-world’s experience, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures allows you to see this icon both from the air and the water. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. Kimberley Rock Art

The crumpled, ancient terrain of the Kimberley region in the most northern part of Western Australia is home to more than 100,000 pieces of Aboriginal rock art that date from the Palaeolithic to the modern era.

The images have been painted, engraved, sculpted and even moulded out of blobs of beeswax and spinifex resin in shades of ochre, sienna and rust in the sprawling gallery that covers an area of about 423,500 square kilometres. For context, that’s almost twice the size of the UK, making it one of the largest cultural landscapes on the planet.

The images have been painted, engraved, sculpted and even moulded out of blobs of beeswax and spinifex resin in shades of ochre, sienna and rust. (Image: Garry Norris Photography)

The rock art sites are sacred to the Traditional Owners of the Kimberley whose ancestors carried out ceremonies in the caves. Visitors to the area can take a self-guided tour of the significant rock art sites along the Kimberley coastline, from the Mitchell Plateau to Kimberley Coast and Gibb River Road, but the best way to see the art sites is on a tour with a cultural guide from the Worrorra language group who can explain the significance of the many images and motifs.

Jilinya Adventures ’ Rock Art by Air helicopter tour dips and dives around the dramatic sandstone scarps to access hidden caves where you’ll learn the ways of the Wandjina (Rainmaker Creation Spirit) that is depicted in caves all over the Kimberley.

The rock art sites are sacred to the Traditional Owners of the Kimberley. (Image: Garry Norris Photography)

5. Lucky Bay

You can’t get more Australian than seeing kangaroos bouncing over a sugar-white sandy beach edged by dunes carpeted in wildflowers, which is one of the reasons Lucky Bay regularly ranks in lists of Australia’s best beaches. While the beach is renowned for its encounters with mobs of kangaroos, who appear to flutter their eyelashes at the mere hint of a photo op, it is equally popular for snorkelling in the crystalline waters and sprawling out under the sun doing not much of anything.

Located 45 minutes from Esperance in Cape Le Grand National Park, the area is rich in Indigenous history and brimming with wildlife; if you’re visiting between July and October there’s a high chance you’ll see migrating whales. During the day you can swim, fish, surf, while at night Lucky Bay Campground invites stargazing as you camp out under an ancient canopy of planets and stars.

Lucky Bay regularly ranks in lists of Australia’s best beaches. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

6. Staircase to the Moon

Time your visit to Broome to coincide with a full moon between the months of March and October and there’s a good chance you will witness the natural phenomenon that is the so-called Staircase to the Moon, when the Earth’s natural satellite lights up the corrugated tidal flats of Roebuck Bay. The lunar light show occurs during a low tide when the ridged flats transform into a dramatic golden staircase that looks like it is ascending to the heavens.

This stunning setting is an unofficial meeting place for locals who come as much to browse the stalls at the night markets (held on the first night of each full moon) as they do to wax rhapsodic about the night sky, pin-cushioned with stars. You can sample food that speaks to the multicultural heritage of the area, and buy souvenirs that range from candles to confectionery.

You can also see the Staircase to the Moon at Onslow, Cape Keraudren and Dampier Peninsula, Cossack, Point Samson and Port Hedland.

Time your visit to Broome to coincide with a full moon. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

7. Orcas at Bremer Bay Canyon

Local intel has it that you’re almost guaranteed a sighting of orcas at Bremer Bay Canyon over summer. According to Naturaliste Charters’ marine biologist Pia Markovic, more than 150 orcas and other apex predators gather off the coast of the township of Bremer Bay between January and April each year to feast on squid and pelagic fish. It is, says Markovic, “the largest known aggregation of orcas in the Southern Hemisphere”.

Bremer Bay is about a two-hour drive from Albany and the list of species you might encounter off the continental shelf, some 45 kilometres from the harbour, also includes sunfish, beaked whales, oceanic dolphin species, great white and hammerhead sharks, albatross and sperm whales. One of the best ways to observe orcas hunting in stealth mode, breaching and socialising, spy-hopping or slapping the surface of the water with their dorsal fins is by boarding Naturaliste Charters ’ 20-metre catamaran, Alison Maree, to Bremer Point, one of the least-explored places on the planet.

More than 150 orcas and other apex predators gather off the coast of the township of Bremer Bay between January and April each year.

8. Margaret River’s Cave System

The labyrinthine network of tunnels, caves, and caverns in the Margaret River Region are estimated to be about one million years old and are one of Australia’s true lesser-known treasures.

Self-guided tours nudge visitors deep inside these gothic cathedrals, which have jagged stalagmites jutting upward from the cave floors and crystallised stalactites dripping down from the ceilings. You can also enter the caves like an action hero via an abseiling rope or tour the twisted tunnelways with a guide. Some of the real gems of the cave system include the giant stalactites in Jewel Cave, the ancient fossils in the aptly named Mammoth Cave and the passageway dubbed the Tunnel of Doom that you can crawl through at Ngilgi Cave.

Lake Cave is one of around 100 limestone caves that lie beneath the surface of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge and is, like one of Gaudi’s works of art, both strange, beautiful and grotesque. See the ‘Suspended Table’ reflected in the ‘lake’ like a crystal chandelier in this haunting hall of mirrors that reflects the misshapen pillars and melting walls of the chamber; the soundtrack of drips reminds visitors this is still a work in progress.

The labyrinthine network of tunnels, caves, and caverns in the Margaret River Region are estimated to be about one million years old. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. The Pinnacles

The Pinnacles are stunning other-worldly structures that, according to WA’s Parks and Wildlife Service formed about 30,000 years ago when the sea receded and left deposits of seashells.

The landscape here is like an open-air museum, an archaeological wonderland studded with thousands of limestone pillars on the golden sands of the Pinnacles Desert, just south of Cervantes and about 200 kilometres north of Perth.

Visit this wild and beautiful location in Nambung National Park as the sun is setting and watch as the Pinnacles are painted pink, then gold, then as navy as the night. In the stillness, the columns resemble the remains of an ancient temple complex. In fact, when the Dutch explored this chunk of WA in 1650 they thought the craggy spires were the ruins of a lost city.

‘Nambung’ is said to mean ‘crooked’ in the language of the Noongar peoples, the Traditional Owners of the land, and is a possible reference to the seasonal river that twists around the formations that spike out of the shifting yellow sands like giant shards of honeycomb.

The Pinnacles are stunning other-worldly structures. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

10. Bungle Bungle Range

Located within Purnululu National Park in the rugged Kimberley region, the quizzical Bungle Bungle Range is like an oversized children’s stacking puzzle rendered in rock. The orange and black beehive-like mounds, formed over 20 million years, rise and fall in hypnotic, undulating patterns across 450 square kilometres. As might be expected from such a wondrous anomaly, there is much to explore, discover and appreciate, all of which can be done by foot on a tour of its nooks and crannies, or from the air on a (seriously) scenic flight.

The orange and black beehive-like mounds, formed over 20 million years. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

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Comments (10)

I’m shocked. I had no idea WA was such an Interesting place.

Really hope to see some of these one day

I’m amazed you didn’t feature the oldest living things on the planet. The Thrombolites at lake Clifton and Stromatolites up at Shark Bay. These are only found in WA and one or two other places in the world. The are older than dinosaurs and they needed to supply the oxygen for all later forms of life. I’ve just returned to Melbourne after time in Perth and made sure I went to Lake Clifton.

We have seen 50% of the top 10 sites in WA but look forward to doing more. A cruise up the Kimberley Coast would be good as well. Cheers Warwick Nelson

Amazing places and photos well done, I hope soon I will be able to visit all these places regards Bella

Simply fantastic & we’ve had the privilege of experiencing most of them. Aren’t we lucky!

The Bungle Bungles would have to be one of the least known and most speculator sites in Australia. The colours and the walks, and then Cathedral George. Just amazing.

One day! One day! Before I die,

What a most amazing beautiful place Western Australia is. How lucky are we in Australia to have such beauty. My husband and I Have been to 8 of these places and we definitely want to go back to see the others.

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State Library membership gives you access to free apps, ebooks, audiobooks, resources and so much more.

Photographs

Around one million images make up the Pictorial Collection. It attempts to cover all aspects of the State’s history and consists of photographs, postcards, slides, albums, glass negatives, illustrations and art works. Subjects include portraits of people from all walks of life, social gatherings, dances, sporting events, business activities, rural and mining industries and transport.

We also collect representative works of Western Australian photographers and the various processes they used, together with items relevant to the history of photography.

Access to the collection

Photographs are increasingly being digitised and some 70,000 images are now available on-line through the State Library  catalogue  .

The majority of the collection can still only be accessed via a card catalogue indexed by locality, subject, personal or other names. The level of indexing varies and depends on how much is known about each photograph. To protect the original photographs, a large proportion of the collection has been photocopied and bound into a series of volumes for viewing. Other items are only available in albums, as transparencies or on video and are available on request. Due to their fragility, negatives and some originals are not available for public viewing.

Pictorial collection highlights

While the pictorial collection holds many collections of photographs the following have been highlighted as "gems" of the collection. Other collections or individual photographs are increasingly being digitised and can be found in the  State Library Catalogue . The bulk of the collection can be accessed through a card catalogue, indexed by locality, name of person or subject. The level of indexing varies depending on how much is known about each photograph. To protect the original photographs, a large proportion of the collection has been photocopied and bound into a series of volumes for viewing.

Photograph Highlights

Dick Perry wildflower photographs

WA's Oldest Photographs

Mavis Phillips (nee Walley 1921–1982)

Black Lives Matter

WA Music Photography from the Archives

Richard Woldendorp

Abraham ‘Izzy’ Orloff

Betty Foster

COVID-19 Photographs

Wellington Dam Mural

Staged to Sell

Robert Baxter

Brett Canét-Gibson

Alfred Hawes Stone

Grace Roper

Charles Walker

Louise Whelan

Greg Woodward

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20 Famous photography spots in WA

If you love photography, Western Australia is a travel photographer's paradise. This state offers some of the most amazing and inspiring scenery in the world.

Whether you're a professional travel photographer or simply want to take some memorable family snaps, you'll find that there are a number of popular photography spots in WA.

In fact, some of these locations have become so famous for their beauty and allure that they attract photographers from around the world! So if you're looking to take impressive travel images for Instagram or simply want to take in the view, here is our list of the top 20 travel photo spots in WA.

1. Lucky Bay

Image credit:  @sydneyfacile

This secluded bay in Esperance is well known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Lucky Bay is a must-see spot for any travel photographer visiting Western Australia.

But browse the #luckybay tag on Instagram, and you'll soon see this isn't just another beach. Lucky Bay is known for its resident kangaroos, which can be found hopping around the coastline.

While the kangaroos are very friendly and will happily pose for photos, you shouldn't pet or feed them. It's best to visit at dawn or dusk when you have the best chance for a kangaroo encounter. During the heat of the day, you'll find that they like to retreat into the shade of the bushland behind the beach.

Once you've met the kangaroos, there's plenty to see and do in Esperance , so make sure you stay a few days at Esperance Bay Holiday Park .

2. Pinnacles National Park

Image credit:  @gera_salvarinas

The Pinnacles are an incredible natural formation of limestone spires located in Nambung National Park . This park is a popular spot for landscape photography, and it's easy to see why — the eerie landscape makes for some stunning images.

The naturally occurring limestone structures look like something out of a science fiction film and vary from small piles to huge towers several metres high. It's certainly not your average landscape!

To get the best images, visit the Pinnacles during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is at its best. And be sure to take a wander through the park — there are plenty of trails that will lead you to some amazing viewpoints.

Jurien Bay makes an ideal base for exploring the Pinnacles. At the coastal Jurien Bay Tourist Park , you can relax and unwind and visit the Pinnacles as many times as you need to get that perfect shot!

3. South Perth Foreshore

Image credit:  @matt_ricci1982

If you're looking to take some impressive cityscapes, the South Perth Esplanade is the perfect spot for viewing the city skyline. The area is popular with locals and tourists alike, and it's a great place to relax in the sun while you take some photos.

The best time for photography at South Perth Foreshore is during magic hour (dusk) and early evening when the city lights are on display. You can capture impressive silhouettes of passing boats and the lights reflecting off the Swan River.

Make sure to bring a tripod if you're planning to shoot at night — it'll help to keep your photos sharp.

4. Bluff Knoll

Image credit:  @smilingadventurer

This peak in the Stirling Ranges is a popular spot for hikers and landscape photographers. The view from the summit is simply breathtaking and makes for some beautiful images. 

You'll need to hike a 7km trail to reach the summit. From here, you can enjoy some of the best views in all of Western Australia. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to hike to beat the heat and when the light is best for photography.

In addition to the summit, there are some other great photography spots along the trail. You might even be lucky enough to see a cloud waterfall — a natural phenomenon that causes clouds to cascade down the mountainside in a waterfall-like effect.

5. Cable Beach

Image credit:  @sarahandzane

This world-famous beach in Broome is known for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear water. But what makes it unique is the " camel train " that rides along the beach each evening.

If you're looking to capture a beautiful and unusual sunset shot, Cable Beach is definitely the place to go, although the scenes are more reminiscent of the Middle East than Australia!

The beach is also a great place for family photos — the turquoise water and white sand make for a perfect backdrop.

Broome makes an excellent base for exploring the Kimberley region, and Broome Caravan Park is located just 5km from Cable Beach.

6. Wave Rock

Image credit:  @sabsii_i

One of the most unique and iconic sites in Western Australia, Wave Rock is a huge rock formation with an incredible natural wave-like shape. It's located in Hyden near Esperance, and it's definitely worth making the detour to visit on your next road trip through WA.

Dawn and dusk are the most popular times to visit Wave Rock, as the rocks glow a beautiful orange and pink hue. But the spot is also popular with astrophotographers, who come to capture the stars shining over the rock formation.

There are a few other great road trip photography opportunities in Hyden, including Hippo's Yawn and the scrap iron sculptures that are dotted around the roadsides in the area.

7. Crawley Edge Boat House

Image credit:  @martininseoul

This 1930s boatshed in Perth has become one of the most iconic photo spots in the city. It's located on the Swan River in Crawley, between Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens.

The boatshed is best captured at sunrise when the pastel tones of the sky reflecting in the river perfectly complement the moody blue of the building. The iconic composition is straight down the wooden jetty, but make sure to check out the #blueboathouse tag on Instagram for some other ideas.

8. Yeagarup Dunes

Image credit:  @theroad_islife

This 10km long stretch of golden sand is an Instagrammer's dream. Located close to Pemberton, the dunes are a photographers' paradise and great for spectacular desert backdrops.

Yeagarup Dunes are a particularly popular spot with drone photographers and videographers. The natural beauty and isolation of the location can make for some visually impressive shots.

You'll need a 4WD to access the dunes , so make sure to factor that into your road trip plans . You can book a guided tour if you don't feel up to driving on your own.

9. Middleton Beach

Image credit:  @thispapercutlife

Middleton Beach in Albany is one of the most popular beaches in all of WA, and it's easy to see why. The long, sweeping beach is perfect for a swim or a picnic, and the views are simply stunning.

The historic jetty features in most pictures of the beach and looks particularly beautiful at sunset.

If you're looking for a postcard-perfect photo of the Australian coastline, Middleton Beach is definitely the place to go for travel photography.

10. Rottnest Island

Image credit:  @as.happy.as.a.quokka

Rottnest Island is one of WA's most popular tourist destinations and is a favourite of families and solo travellers alike. The white sand and turquoise water are obvious attractions, but if you're travelling with your camera, there are plenty of other reasons to visit too.

The island is home to some very cheeky quokkas — an undeniably cute species of marsupial that is found only on a few islands in WA. There is a reason they are the star of countless travel photos.

The island is also a great place to go whale watching in season, and there are some great photo opportunities off the coastline.

11. Cathedral Gorge

Image credit:  @hike_australia

If you're looking for an awe-inspiring landscape to photograph, Cathedral Gorge is definitely worth a visit. The gorge is located in the Bungle Bungle range in Purnululu National Park and is a spectacular (though remote) spot.

The gorge features towering sandstone walls that have been eroded over time into wild shapes — including 'the organ', which looks like an incredible natural pipe organ when photographed from the right angle.

Access the gorge via a 2km long hiking trail. To get to the Bungles, you'll need to drive for 2-3 hours in a 4WD. Private helicopter flights are also available if you have the budget and want to get some stunning aerial shots.

12. Elephant Rocks

Image credit:  @travelwiththetremains

Elephant Rocks is a unique landscape of round, pinkish-grey rocks that resemble a herd of elephants paddling in the waters of William Bay, Denmark, on the South West Coast of Western Australia . It's just a 40-minute drive from the Walpole Rest Point Caravan Park and makes a nice travel photography day trip if you're exploring the Walpole wilderness.

It's best to visit during low tide when you can walk out to the rocks and explore them up close. The rocks look particularly beautiful at sunset when the pinkish tones are accentuated by the orange and red of the sky.

You can also visit Elephant Cove, which is accessible only at low tide. The cove has some giant boulders that are great for climbing and posing on, but be careful of the waves — they can get pretty big!

13. Margaret River

Image credit:  @lostdia

Margaret River is one of the most picturesque places in Western Australia, and it's no wonder that it's a popular spot for road trips and a must-do for any travel photographer. The region is famous for its world-class Margaret River wineries , stunning coastline, and lush forests.

There are plenty of great photo opportunities in Margaret River. The most popular spots are probably the leading lines of the Boranup Forest with its majestic Karri trees, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and the rugged coastline.

Summerstar has two caravan parks in Margaret River, Riverview Tourist Park and Margaret River Tourist Park , so it's easy to stay and explore the great outdoors for a few days.

14. Kalbarri Skywalk

Image credit:  @rutujagaikwad.93

Kalbarri National Park is a beautiful location to see (or photograph) the sunrise or sunset, and there's no better way to do it than on the Kalbarri Skywalk .

The wheelchair-accessible platform juts out from a cliff face 100m above ground level, offering spectacular views across the Murchison River Gorge.

The skywalk is one of the most popular selfie spots in the country, so expect to see a few people taking photos here. It's open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and you can buy tickets at the park entrance.

It's worth spending a few days in the National Park, and Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park makes an ideal base for your adventures.

15. Nature's Window

Image credit:  @thegirlsgoglobal

While you're in the Kalbarri National Park , make sure to visit Nature's Window — a natural archway formed from sandstone that has eroded over time.

The archway is a popular destination for photographers as it naturally frames the landscape behind it, which includes a stunning vista of the Murchison River.

The best time to visit Nature's Window is around sunset, when the low light makes for some great photos, with incredible views of the archway and surrounding hills against a red sky.

However, don't linger too long as you'll need to hike a kilometre from the car park there and back.

16. Busselton Jetty

Image credit:  @stumckay

At 1.8km long, Busselton Jetty is the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere. It extends out into the waters of Geographe Bay and is the perfect place to set up your tripod and take photos of the sunset, sunrise, or simply the bay itself.

For more photos, the jetty also hosts an underwater observatory, which descends 8m under the surface of the ocean to offer unmatched views of the coral and sea life below. This is the perfect place to practise your underwater photography skills without getting your feet wet!

17. Ningaloo Reef

Image credit:  @maxence.photography

The Ningaloo Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the North West Coast, near the town of Exmouth.

The reef stretches for 260km and is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and turtles.

It's no wonder that the Ningaloo Reef is a popular spot for travel photographers, and there are plenty of opportunities to capture some amazing photos here. So whether you're snorkelling in the reef or taking a scenic flight over it, make sure to keep your camera at the ready!

18. Kings Park

Image credit:  @thecycopath

It may not be quite as spectacular as some of the other locations on this list, but Kings Park is still a beautiful spot to take photos.

Located in Perth, the capital of Western Australia, it's right on the Swan River and offers some gorgeous views across to the Perth city centre.

The park comprises over 400 hectares of land, making it one of the largest inner-city parks in the world.

If you’re not up for a big road trip, there are plenty of photo opportunities here, whether you're admiring the view from the park's many lookout points or capturing some macro shots of the plants and flowers in the Botanic gardens.

19. Cottesloe Beach

Image credit:  @juliet.romeo.kilo

For a road trip closer to home, Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth's prettiest beaches and is made all the more Instagrammable by the Indiana Tea House that sits on its shores.

There were plans to demolish the fading but photogenic building. However, after public outcry, the tea house will instead be renovated into an upmarket restaurant and boutique hotel.

If you want to get some snaps of this Perth icon before it changes forever, we advise heading to Cottesloe Beach as soon as you can!

20. Fremantle

Image credit:  @thecroc

The picturesque city of Fremantle is well known for its colonial architecture, charming streetscapes, and lively markets. It's also a portrait photographer's dream, with dozens of eye-catching backdrops to choose from.

If you're looking to take some photos in Fremantle, we recommend heading to the Esplanade Reserve, with its pretty park and Ferris wheel. Monument Hill is another good spot with its palm trees and vantage points over the city.

For a colourful snap that's sure to get you lots of likes on Instagram, visit the container rainbow sculpture made from recycled shipping containers. It's located on the south bank of the Swan River, near the Jetty Bar.

Ready for some unique travel photography

Western Australia is a beautiful place to take pictures, and the places we've mentioned here should give you plenty of ideas for your next travel photography adventure. From bustling cityscapes to serene beaches, this list has something for everyone.

Be sure to add a few of these locations to your travel itinerary , bring your travel photography gear and capture some amazing photos while you're there.

Frequently asked questions

What are the popular photography spots in Western Australia?

Western Australia has several popular photography spots, including:

Karijini National Park for its gorges and waterfalls.

Pinnacles National Park for its unique rock formations.

Cable Beach for its amazing sunsets.

Margaret River region for its wineries, beaches, and caves.

Wave Rock in Hyden for its unique rock formation.

Rottnest Island for its turquoise waters and quokkas.

Ningaloo Reef for its marine life and coral reefs.

Can I find kangaroos at Lucky Bay, and is it safe to approach them?

Lucky Bay is a popular spot to see kangaroos in their natural habitat. It is generally safe to observe them from a distance, but it is not recommended to approach or feed them as they are still wild animals.

What is the best time to visit the Pinnacles National Park?

The best time to visit Pinnacles National Park is during the cooler months of April to September when the weather is milder. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months of December to February as it can get extremely hot.

Are there any accommodations available near the Cable Beach area?

Yes, there are several accommodations available near Cable Beach area, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include The Pearle of Cable Beach, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, and Seashells Broome.

More to explore

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Top 12 Washington State Attractions

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

The state of Washington is blessed with landscapes, whether created by nature or by humans, that are not only scenic but perfect for outdoor recreation—but that's not all the Evergreen State has to offer. Whether you like the view from the top of Seattle's Space Needle or shopping at the bustling Pike Place Market, Washington State has something for everyone. Here is a list of the 12 best attractions to enjoy in Washington.

Explore Olympic National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Olympic National Park , which is a unique and diverse wilderness preserve, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve. During a visit to the park, you can experience a number of different ecosystems, including alpine mountain, temperate rain forests, and rugged ocean beaches. The park's Hurricane Ridge can be visited on a long day trip from Seattle. If you wish to explore several sections of the park, plan to spend at least three days on a multiday loop around the Olympic Peninsula.

Drive Along Mount Baker Highway

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Mount Baker Highway begins in Bellingham on State Route 542, passes through a charming rural area, then enters Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Along the way, you'll enjoy 60 miles of beauty and recreation. Be sure to stop at the U.S. Forest Service ranger station in Glacier for a map, recreation pointers, and the latest road and trail condition. There will be many places to stop and enjoy the scenery, hike, or picnic, including Horseshoe Bend, Nooksack Falls, Heather Meadows, and Artist Point. If you plan to head all the way up to Artist Point (which, along with Heather Meadows is the reason Mount Baker Highway ranks so high on this list), August or September is the time to go.

Hike (or Drive) in Mount Rainier National Park

The stunning beauty and dominant presence of Mount Rainier demands that all who see it on their horizon will want to visit in person. And the closer in you get, the more gorgeous the view. Mount Rainier National Park is accessible to all who wish to experience it; even if you're not up for a hike, much can be experienced on a driving tour with frequent stops at scenic viewpoints. Those who wish to explore the mountain landscape up close will find hikes that range from easy to difficult, from a few minutes to several days.

Drive the Coulee Corridor

The Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway runs from Omak in the north, through Moses Lake, to Othello. Along the way, you'll take in stunning scenery, both natural and human-made. Grand Coulee Dam is a major highlight, where you can spend a good chunk of your day. Dry Falls Visitor Center, Banks Lake, Steamboat Rock State Park, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, Lake Lenore Caves State Park, Potholes State Park, and the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge are all worthwhile stops along Coulee Corridor.

Take in Picture-Perfect Landscapes on the North Cascades Scenic Highway

Noah Krayenhagen / TripSavvy

The North Cascades Scenic Highway follows State Route 20 from Sedro-Woolley to the Methow Valley, passing through portions of both Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and North Cascades National Park. Along the way, you'll see sharp snowcapped peaks, historic dams and powerhouses, and blue-green lakes. There are numerous places to get out and stretch your legs at a scenic viewpoint or hiking trail. Must-do stops include the Diablo Lake Boat Tour , the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center, and the charming Western-themed town of Winthrop.

See an Active Volcano

Mount St. Helens and the lands preserved in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument are fascinating places to visit for a number of reasons. First, getting up close to an active volcano provides a particular thrill. As you drive through the monument, you'll see evidence of the vast destruction from the 1980 eruption , but you'll also see signs of fantastic recovery in plant and animal life. Each of the visitors' centers does an excellent job of filling you in on different aspects of Mount St. Helens, before, during, and after the events of 1980, with photographs, videos, models, and interpretive exhibits.

Shop at Pike Place Market

Seattle's Pike Place Market is packed full of more stalls, shops, and eateries than you can explore in just one visit. Or even a few. But that's one of the things that makes Pike Place Market a favorite with both visitors and residents. You know you'll see a gorgeous array of seafood, produce, and flowers every time, and you know you'll also find nifty craft items, hear entertaining street musicians, and see numerous interesting characters. Along with these old favorites, you'll discover something new and unique to the Northwest.

Immerse Yourself in "Modern" Seattle

A legacy of the 1962 Century 21 Exposition, Seattle Center combines open park spaces with a number of attractions and performance venues. Many of Seattle's major annual festivals are held at Seattle Center, including the Northwest Folklife Festival, Bumbershoot , and Winterfest. The Space Needle , Museum of Pop Culture , the Pacific Science Center , KeyArena, McCaw Hall, and Intiman Theatre are just some of the places you can visit during a day at Seattle Center.

Cross the Puget Sound by Ferry

John & Lisa Merrill/Getty Images

Part of Washington's state highway system, the Washington State Ferries convey people and their vehicles to and from points around the Puget Sound . Not only are these ferries one way—and often the only way—to get to the many island communities scattered around the Sound, they are also a fun and relaxing way to experience the beauty of the region. Major ferry docks are located at downtown Seattle, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Clinton, Kingston, Bainbridge Island , and Anacortes.

Relax at Spokane's Riverfront Park

World's fairs and expositions have left Washington with beautiful community spaces, and unique structures that have gone on to become treasured landmarks and Riverfront Park is a stunning example. Expo '74 transformed Spokane's downtown railroad yards into lovely green spaces dotted with interesting buildings. Some of those structures remain, along with fun attractions such as the Spokane Falls SkyRide, the historic Looff Carrousel, an amusement park , and seasonal ice skating rink.

Admire Incredible Glass Art

Marc-Anthony Macon/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0

No artist is more synonymous with Seattle than Dale Chihuly. The artist's colorful, spiraling works of glass can be seen around the world, but Seattle's Chihuly Garden and Glass is an astounding showcase of the Tacoma-born Chihuly's works. The garden's centerpiece is the 40-foot tall Glasshouse, home to a mesmerizing 100-foot long sculpture.

Marvel at the Science Behind Aviation at the Museum of Flight

Cord Rodefeld/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0 

Seattle's Museum of Flight is home to one of the most extensive air and space collections in the United States and attracts more than 500,000 visitors each year. In addition to ever-changing exhibitions, the museum's permanent collection includes a 1929 Boeing 80A-1, a Lockheed M-21, and a Boeing VC-137B. One of the museum's unique exhibits is a full-scale, interactive air traffic control tower, which offers visitors a glimpse in the work of an air traffic controller.

Plan Your Trip to Washington State

Mount Baker Highway Day Trip From Bellingham

Amazing National Parks Near Seattle

7 Best Things to Do Between Seattle and Vancouver

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

Bellingham and Whatcom County Travel Guide

Great Washington State Road Trips

The 10 Best Places to Go Camping in Washington State

Plan Your North Cascades Highway Road Trip

The Ultimate Northern US Road Trip

Mountain Getaways in Washington State

These Are the 7 Best Beaches in Seattle

Best Places to See Fall Color in the Pacific Northwest

8 Best Things to Do on the Downtown Seattle, Washington Waterfront

The Best Time to Visit Seattle

The Best Winter Vacation Destinations in Washington State

Visitors’ Guide & Map Request

Get the Official Washington State Visitors’ Guide — our handy resource that you can order or view online.

Don’t miss out on this essential, one-stop source for Washington State travelers. With stunning photography, detailed maps, and insider information on must-see attractions, the guide highlights each of the state’s diverse travel regions. Order your free print copy today!

The Washington State Visitors’ Guide is published by State of Washington Tourism and the Washington Hospitality Association. For additional travel resources, visit our Plan Your Trip page.

Order the Washington State Visitors’ Guide

Currently, individual copies of the print Washington State Visitors’ Guide will be mailed for free via standard mail. Shipping charges apply for rush and international orders.

If you ordered a rush copy, please allow 5-7 days for your copy to be delivered. International orders take 4-6 weeks for shipping. Otherwise, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your copy.

Businesses can request a  bulk shipment . Shipping on bulk orders must be paid for by the requestor.

Get a Printed Copy of the Guide

• US - Standard Mail (Please allow 3-4 weeks) - $ 0.00
• US - Rush (5-7 business days) - $ 11.00
• Canada / Mexico - Standard - $ 12.00
• International (excluding Canada and Mexico) - Standard - $ 16.00

Washington State Road Map

People still love their road maps! Even in these days of GPS and smart phone apps, one of the most often requested items at visitor info centers and AAA offices across the nation continues to be a good old-fashioned, fold-out highway map.

The map features the routes with a brief description of all 29 of our state’s Official Scenic Byways. It is available to order online, or it can be picked up at nearly every visitor information outlet throughout the state.

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Olympia

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Washington's state capital, Olympia, sits at the southern end of Puget Sound. Here, the Deschutes River meets saltwater, and the glaciated slopes of Mount Rainier rise on the eastern horizon. It's a compact and beautiful city that absolutely shines on a sunny day, especially surrounding the neoclassical architecture of the Washington State Capitol Campus .

It's much more than just state politics in Olympia, it also has a lively waterfront district and historic downtown. Here, plenty of restaurants, shops, and museums mirror opportunities found in Seattle, a sixty-mile drive north. This bountiful selection also includes plenty of things to do even on those drizzly days throughout winter.

Olympia is worth a more extended visit with its adventurous side. Local landscapes like a National Wildlife Refuge and the unique Mima Mounds encourage day trips from the city center, while the world-renowned adventures of Olympic and Mount Rainier National Park are less than a two-hour drive away.

Plan your next Pacific Northwest adventure with my list of the top things to do in Olympia.

See also: Where to Stay in Olympia

1. Washington State Capitol Building

2. billy frank jr. nisqually national wildlife refuge, 3. hands on children's museum, 4. find something fresh at the olympia farmers market, 5. stroll the boardwalk at percival landing, 6. shop and dine in the downtown historic district, 7. walk around capitol lake, 8. catch a show at the capitol theater, 9. mima mounds, 10. tumwater falls park, 11. olympic flight museum, 12. bigelow house museum, 13. plan a day trip or weekend adventure to mount rainier national park, 14. take a trip to olympic national park, where to stay in olympia for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in olympia, olympia, wa - climate chart.

The impressive white dome of the Washington Legislative Building is hard to miss when visiting Olympia. Its neoclassical architecture is visible across the city and ranks as the tallest masonry dome in North America. Visiting the capitol complex is free, with guided and self-guided tours available throughout the day.

The historic campus surrounding the capitol building is beautifully landscaped. I recommend exploring the memorials, fountains, and gardens surrounding the state buildings. Especially make a point of visiting the Tivoli Fountain for an excellent photo opportunity.

The Legislative Building is open for self-guided tours nearly every day of the year. Free guided tours are also available, led by a volunteer docent providing insight into its lavish interior, including a five-ton Tiffany chandelier. Other buildings of interest on the capitol campus include The Temple of Justice and the Governor's Mansion , also with guided tours available.

Address: 416 Sid Snyder Avenue Southwest, Olympia, Washington

The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a vast habitat of protected fresh and saltwater marshes, grasslands, and forests for migratory wildlife. It's an excellent place to visit to hike or walk through a dynamic ecosystem that changes with the tides, offering all sorts of wildlife spotting opportunities, especially birds.

This wildlife-abundant landscape is less than 10 miles east of Olympia. It's part of the larger Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, which also includes Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge to the west. Head to the Brown Farm Road entrance for the easiest access off Interstate 5. And I recommend bringing some binoculars or a telephoto lens to get the best views.

Among the 200 visiting annually, common bird species spotted at the refuge include the great blue heron, American bittern, and peregrine falcon. Other wildlife also spotted at the refuge consists of pronghorn antelope, box turtles, and migratory orca whales. The refuge recommends arriving within two hours of high tide for the best birding opportunities.

Address: 100 Brown Farm Road, Olympia, Washington

Official site: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Billy_Frank_Jr_Nisqually/

The Hands On Children's Museum is just north of the downtown historic district, near East Bay Public Plaza. It features eight detailed galleries with numerous interactive displays. Children are encouraged to play creatively while learning in stimulating settings. The museum is designed for ages zero to 10 – making it a popular outing for young families.

Popular permanent exhibits at the museum include an Arts & Paint Studio, a Fabulous Forest, and an interactive Outdoor Discovery Center. And unlike some children's museums, this facility is designed for various age groups — including parents with infants.

The WET Science Center is a nationally recognized education space less than a block away for additional family-friendly attractions. WET stands for Water Education and Technology, and this aqua-focused science center comprises a series of galleries with interactive exhibits about the earth's most essential resources.

Address: 414 Jefferson Street Northeast, Olympia, Washington

Official site: http://www.hocm.org/

The Olympia Farmers Market is a highlight of a visit. The massive pavilion is lined with local produce and goods, and the Market's 40 years of experience showed. Add to that the market's location next to the picturesque Percival Landing boardwalk.

The Olympia Farmers Market is a four-day event each week, from Thursday to Sunday, during the summer season of April through October. The Market occurs throughout the year, with hours changing depending on the season.

Signs and ground arrows indicate the correct traffic flow throughout the pavilion, and on most days, it's a steady stream of people filling in the space between stalls. Expect different produce and goods throughout the year, including berries, baked pastries, and handcrafted cheeses.

Olympia Farmers Market is also home to a broad selection of hot food stands representing cuisine from across the world. A large seating area is next to these food stands, offering a great place to sit down and enjoy a meal wide a side of people watching.

Address: 700 Capitol Way North, Olympia, Washington

Official site: http://www.olympiafarmersmarket.com/

Make time to visit Percival Landing to stroll down the wooden boardwalk lining this 3.4-acre public waterfront. The views of Budd Inlet from the boardwalk, overlooking the southern edges of Puget Sound, really highlight Olympia's seaside location and maritime culture.

Percival Landing connects Olympia's Historic District and the Olympia Farmers Market with less than a mile walk beside the water. This connection helps reduce driving and parking logistics.

Several patio-clad restaurants also line Percival Landing, popular for lunch and dinner next to the water. Among the dining selections, Budd Bay Café is a local's favorite, offering menus for all three meals of the day. Budd Bay Café also has a popular weekend brunch that often sends a line out the door.

Head to the downtown historic district For restaurants and shopping in Olympia, a few blocks north of the capitol building. This charming district encompasses approximately 17 blocks, with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Alongside this aesthetic architecture, the many murals give the district extra color.

Dining in the historic district covers every meal of the day. More than a few coffee shops offer early morning aromas, and I'd recommend Burial Grounds Coffee Collective on Capitol Way. Just a block north is Basilico Ristorante , a go-to spot for date nights and fine dining. And for long lunch menus, on the other side of the historic district is the community staple known as 5 th on 4 th Sandwiches .

Keep your eyes peeled for the many murals adorning the downtown historic district. The city has over 50 registered murals, emblazoned on building sides and tucked away in alleys. Maps are available for those intent on checking out specific spots, but half the fun of this public art project is turning the corner and stumbling upon something new.

Capitol Lake is a 260-acre lake located below the Washington State Capitol. The biggest community attraction of Capitol Lake today is a 1.6-mile trail circling the entire body of water , connecting to different parklands, like Heritage Park and Marathon Park , and the Downtown Historic District. The route is entirely paved, perfect for walkers, runners, cyclists, and stroller pushers. Although, the western half comprises a sidewalk next to Deschutes Parkway.

It's good to know the history of the lake before visiting. The artificial lake is at the intersection of the Deschutes River and Puget Sound, and before the construction of the 5 th Avenue dam in 1951, the area was expansive tidelands.

The attempt to regulate the river output caused significant environmental concerns, including high bacteria build-ups. The water has been closed to the public since 2009, and its murky appearance doesn't invite swimming anyway.

The city and state have recommended tearing down the 5 th Avenue Dam and reverting the lake back to tidal mudflats. No major updates have occurred on this project, although best estimates say that it will take a better part of a decade before it returns to its natural state.

The non-profit Olympia Film Society (OFS) owns and operates the historic Capitol Theater, continuously providing entertainment to the community since 1924. Today, the rotating performances at the Capitol Theater include live music, independent films, and open gallery space for local artists to display their works.

The theater runs regular showtimes Thursday through Sunday with special events throughout the year.

Address: 206 5th Avenue Southeast, Olympia, Washington

Official site: http://olympiafilmsociety.org/

What created these odd, bubble-like mounds southwest of Olympia is a mystery. Proposed solutions to this puzzle include giant gophers, earthquakes, glaciation, and extraterrestrial activity. Half the fun of visiting is speculating what made this interesting and scenic landscape.

Whatever the answer, the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is a great place for walking or hiking, particularly in the spring, when wildflowers bloom on the rolling hills. Approximately three miles of trails with interpretive information navigate the area, including a half-mile, fully accessible path .

It's approximately a 20-minute drive south from the State Capitol to Mima Mounds, utilizing Exit 95 on Interstate-5. It's free to visit, although parking requires a Discover Pass.

Tumwater Falls Park is on the southern shore of Capitol Lake in the neighboring city of Tumwater to the south. This scenic spot is popular for waterfall enthusiasts and anyone looking for a landscaped space to enjoy. It's owned and managed by the Olympia Tumwater Foundation.

A half-mile hiking trail tours the cascading waterfalls created by the mighty Deschutes River. An additional 15 acres at the park provide ample space to enjoy the landscaped scenery with a picnic, stroll, or watchful eye on the changing seasons.

Address: 110 Deschutes Way Southwest, Tumwater, Washington

Official site: http://olytumfoundation.org/what-we-do/tumwater-falls-park/

This aviation museum was established in 1998 at the Olympia Regional Airport . The dedicated museum hangar shelters heritage planes, helicopters, and memorabilia. It's a popular spot for aviation enthusiasts and often a hit with young kids.

Prominent aircraft on display include World War II fighter jets, Cobra helicopters, and military aircraft from the Soviet Air Force. The museum also hosts the annual Olympic Air Show in August, when some of its heritage planes take to the sky. Other special events include collectors shows and gear swaps.

The Olympic Flight Museum is only open on the weekends, Saturdays and Sundays, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It's a small price of admission to check out the aviation on display, with discounts for seniors, military members, and children ages 7 to 12. Kids under seven receive free entry.

Address: Building A, 7637 Old Highway 99 Southeast, Tumwater, Washington

Official site: http://www.olympicflightmuseum.com/

Bigelow House Museum is noted for being Olympia's oldest home. It was built in the mid to late 1850s for the influential Bigelow family (although the exact year of completion is the source of some debate).

The house contains an extensive collection of original furnishings offering insight into local life during the 1800s. The only way to admire the entirety of the Bigelow House Museum is to hop on one of the daily guided tours. These 45-minute narrations provide insight into the Bigelow family's legacy and the city's history.

Address: 918 Glass Avenue, Olympia, Washington

Mount Rainier is a true beacon for adventure in Washington State and was one of the first mountain environments that drew me to move cross-country to Washington in 2014. It's the tallest mountain in the state and the tallest in the Pacific Northwest, and the National Park surrounding the mountain is a massive playground for those looking to explore outside.

Mount Rainier is accessible from all sides, although the southwest Nisqually Entrance and northwest Carbon River Entrance are closest to Olympia, accessible with just under a two-hour drive (approximately 65 miles). Both offer excellent adventures and glacier views. I'd recommend heading to the Nisqually Entrance for a first-time visit. It has tons of accessible hiking trails and museums and easy access to the aptly named Paradise area of the park (one of my absolute favorite places on the continent).

It's an endless adventure in Mount Rainier National Park, with a peak season spanning from June through mid-September. I've stumbled upon a new breathtaking hiking trail with every visit, sometimes quite literally with the elevation climbs involved. Check out my Best Hiking Trails in Mount Rainier National Park article to find the best hikes for your interests and abilities.

Similarly, if you want to turn your day trip into an overnight visit, my guide to Camping at Mt. Rainier covers all the options, including several campgrounds in the surrounding national forests to help ensure you find a spot to pitch a tent or park an RV.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm

The vast wonders of Olympic National Park are accessible within a short drive from Olympia. The national park encompasses nearly a million acres on the Olympic Peninsula, and visitors from the state capital reach its southern boundary within an hour's drive. Other iconic park areas, including the rugged coast and rainforest interior, require a longer commute.

Some of my favorite places to visit in Olympic National Park include the Hoh Rain Forest, Hurricane Ridge, and Ruby Beach. Other equally scenic spots include the Quinault Rain Forest, Sol Duc Hot Springs, and Shi Shi Beach on the northern coast. These areas all host some of the Olympic's best hiking trails , which always bring me back almost once a year.

Olympic National Park is busy throughout the summer, but it's not the busiest national park in Washington (see Mount Rainier). This also adds to the peninsula's allure for me and makes overnight endeavors much more manageable. Still, the number of places to camp is overwhelming. Check out my Camping at Olympic National Park article for a helpful guide on spending the night.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Many great hotels in Olympia can be found along the Interstate 5 corridor. To the east of the downtown district, the Ramada by Wyndham Olympia is a top-rated hotel of the area thanks to a 24-hour pool and hot tub, an accommodating front desk staff, and a complimentary hot breakfast that goes well beyond your ordinary muffins and orange juice.
• Near the Ramada, the Hampton Inn & Suites Olympia Lacey is another popular mid-range option, which features modern rooms and suites and beautiful furnishings for a stylish "home-away-from-home" feeling.
• Within the downtown district, the Hilton Garden Inn Olympia is popular for its comfortable, cozy, and private environment, and its bustling downtown location.

Budget Hotels:

• For great value close to downtown, the Quality Inn Olympia features affordable rates, clean rooms, and many repeat guests.
• In the neighboring community of Lacey to the east, La Quinta Inn Olympia – Lacey is located close to the interstate and is popular for its friendly staff, convenient location, and spacious rooms featuring fridges and microwaves.
• South of Olympia in Tumwater, and near Tumwater Falls Park, the Extended Stay America – Olympia - Tumwater is a great option for those looking for a little extra space.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Other Cities in Washington: Rich in the culture of the Pacific Northwest, the city of Seattle is filled with all sorts of cultural and natural attractions. Near Olympia and Seattle, the city of Bellevue provides its own unique attractions, including art museums, botanical centers, and nature parks. Farther north, Bellingham is a college city with the great backdrops of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands.

More to Explore in Washington: The many top attractions of Washington state stretch from border to border and include Mount Saint Helens, Spokane, and the stunning environment found in the San Juan Islands. For other scenic places to visit, the best small towns to visit in Washington state provide open communities and stunning natural attractions. For exploration of the waters bordering Olympia, our guide to the Puget Sound can have your sails heading in the right direction.

More on Washington

• Short Video - 1 min [ wmv 11 MB] [ mov 23 MB]
• Long Video - 5.5 min [wmv 55 MB] [ mov 120 MB]
• Noah Snavely, Steven M. Seitz, Richard Szeliski, " Photo tourism: Exploring photo collections in 3D ," ACM Transactions on Graphics (SIGGRAPH Proceedings), 25(3), 2006, 835-846. [ pdf ] [ bibtex ]
• For more details on the structure from motion algorithm, please see: Noah Snavely, Steven M. Seitz, Richard Szeliski, " Modeling the world from Internet photo collections ," International Journal of Computer Vision (to be published). [ pdf ] [ bibtex ]
• For information about how to extract focal length data from EXIF tags, please visit this page .
• For information on other related projects, please visit the UW Community Photo Collections project page.
• Full Presentation - [ zip 164 MB]
• Presentation without videos - [ ppt 35 MB]
• Structure from motion code - Our structure from motion code is now available here .
• Images and Reconstructions - We are making several Internet image collections (and associated reconstructions) available here .
• Patch Database - Simon Winder and Matt Brown have used our data to create a database of corresponding local image patches, available here .
• Noah Snavely - CSE Graphics and Imaging Lab (GRAIL) , University of Washington
• Steve Seitz - CSE Graphics and Imaging Lab (GRAIL) , University of Washington
• Richard Szeliski - Interactive Visual Media Group , Microsoft Research
• Kevin Chiu - CSE Graphics and Imaging Lab (GRAIL) , University of Washington
• Andy Hou - CSE Graphics and Imaging Lab (GRAIL) , University of Washington
• See what people are saying about Photo Tourism in the press.
• More on Internet photo collections can be found at the UW GRAIL lab Community Photo Collections project page.
• Visit PhotoCity , and help us reconstruct the world in 3D.
• Check out the technology preview of Photosynth from Microsoft Live Labs. Photosynth is based on this research.
• The Microsoft Research Photo Tourism Page .
• This work was supported by Microsoft Research , the University of Washington Animation Research Labs , an Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) fellowship, National Science Foundation grants IIS-0413198 and DGE-0203031, and an endowment by Emer Dooley and Rob Short .
• We also thank the many Flickr users who agreed to let us use their images for this project.